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April 13, 2025 – Palestine/Israel –
Amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in Gaza, the initiative “We Are Not Numbers” (WANN) stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of Palestinian youth to share their narratives with the world. Co-founded in 2015 by Palestinian journalist Ahmed Alnaouq and American activist Pam Bailey, WANN aims to provide young Palestinians with the tools and platforms to articulate their experiences in English, thereby reaching a global audience.
The inception of WANN was deeply personal. Alnaouq, grieving the loss of his brother in the 2014 Gaza war, found solace and purpose in writing. Recognizing the therapeutic and communicative power of storytelling, he collaborated with Bailey to create a program that would mentor young writers in Gaza. Participants receive six months of training from experienced English-speaking mentors, including journalists and authors, enabling them to craft compelling narratives that humanize the Palestinian experience beyond the often impersonal statistics reported in the media.
Since its establishment, WANN has supported hundreds of young writers, resulting in the publication of over 1,500 stories and poems that delve into the daily lives, struggles, and aspirations of Gazans. These works have been featured in various international media outlets, amplifying voices that might otherwise remain unheard. The recent anthology, “We Are Not Numbers: The Voices of Gaza’s Youth,” compiles standout pieces from the past decade, offering readers intimate insights into the resilience and humanity of its contributors.
The significance of WANN extends beyond literature; it serves as a form of peaceful resistance and a means of preserving cultural identity amid adversity. By empowering youth to share their personal stories, WANN challenges prevailing narratives and fosters a deeper understanding of the Palestinian plight. As Alnaouq emphasizes, the initiative is not about politics but about ensuring that the world recognizes the individual lives and dreams behind the headlines.
In a region where voices are often silenced, “We Are Not Numbers” continues to shine a light on the personal stories that define Gaza’s youth, reminding the global community of the enduring power of storytelling in the face of adversity.
Reference –
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/13/we-are-not-numbers-palestinian-writers-gaza
https://fm.kiselev.is/ts/en/world/story/b25ef4a4-1868-11f0-bd94-a8a1590471b5
